Lemon Grass

Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf

sim-boe-POE-gone  sih-TRATE-us

Poaceae

Explanation of name: Cymbopogon comes from Greek kumbe, boat and pogon, beard, which describes the leaf surrounding the inflorescence (HIT). Citratus refers to the citrus smell of the crushed foliage.

Natural range: Known only from cultivation

Recognition: Large clumping grass standing taller than a person, with a large, loose multibranched inflorescence. Recognize it by the lemon fragrance of the crushed foliage.

Landscape uses: This large clump-forming grass rising to 6 or more feet tall has densely clumped, arching leaves with a bluish cast. This species fits in well with other large ornamental grasses in borders or clumps, or can serve as a backdrop to smaller plantings. It performs well in containers. This grass is often cultivated for its lemony-fragrant foliage useful for making teas and in Asian, especially Thai, cooking, as well as historical medicinal uses. At Palm Beach Community College we find Lemon Grass to appreciate full sun, ample water, and room for the clump to spread. It is tough and recovers readily from harsh treatment.

Notes: The related Citronella Grass, Cymbopogon nardus (L.) Rendle, is cultivated in the Caribbean as a source of citronella oil, and differs by having broader sessile spikelets. To use Lemon Grass in stir fries, peel the lower portion of the stalks, chopping them. Or add the leaf blades to sauces.